Final answer:
To prevent flexion contracture of the knee after a below-knee amputation (BKA), it is important to perform regular knee extension exercises. Avoiding knee extension exercises, encouraging prolonged sitting, or using a knee immobilizer can lead to further stiffness and ultimately increase the risk of flexion contracture.
Step-by-step explanation:
To prevent flexion contracture of the knee after a below-knee amputation (BKA), it is important to perform regular knee extension exercises. These exercises help to maintain the range of motion in the knee joint and prevent the muscles and soft tissues from becoming tight and shortened.
Avoiding knee extension exercises, encouraging prolonged sitting, or using a knee immobilizer can lead to further stiffness and ultimately increase the risk of flexion contracture.
By regularly performing knee extension exercises, such as straightening the knee and holding the position for a few seconds, the muscles and soft tissues around the knee joint can remain flexible and prevent the knee from becoming permanently stuck in a flexed position.